Assisted Reproduction

There are two main types of Assisted Reproduction Techniques (ART), one is IUI, and other is IVF.

IUI (Intrauterine Insemination)

In this method, sperms are collected from the male partner, washed, and then injected into the Fallopian tube of the female partner at the time when she is ovulating. The goal is to reduce the obstacles the sperm has to face in reaching the egg, thus increasing the rate of fertilization. IUI success rates range from 5% to 20%, depending on the age of the female, sperm count, quality, etc. In the US, IUI typically costs around $2,500 to $3,000 USD.

IVF (In Vitro Fertilization)

In this method, eggs are retrieved from the female partner and sperms are collected from the male partner. Sperms and eggs are then placed together to induce fertilization outside the body. The fertilized egg is allowed to mature for several days before it is placed back to the uterus of the female partner. On average, the success rate of an IVF treatment is on the order of 35%. In the US, IVF typically costs around $10,000 USD, and insurance coverage of IVF varies significantly across different plans, so make sure you check with your insurance company first to understand the financial impact.

In general, doctors will advise couples to try several cycles of IUI first. This is because IUI is less involved for the couple and is less costly. Should IUI not be successful after 3-6 tries, the doctor will recommend that you either go to a different fertility facility to continue IUI treatment, or go ahead with IVF.